A Swiss border town is preparing to fine dog owners who fail to wash away their pets’ urine from public places, in what officials describe as a first for the country.
Starting in mid-August, Chiasso in the Italian-speaking canton of Ticino will require dog owners to carry water and immediately dilute any urine left on sidewalks, streets or other public surfaces. First-time offenders will receive a warning. Repeat violations will bring a fine of 100 Swiss francs.
Mayor Bruno Arrigoni said the rule followed numerous complaints from residents and a neighborhood commission. Hot weather and prolonged drought this summer made the odors more noticeable, particularly in the town center where people walk frequently. The municipal council acted after political pressure in June to address the problem.
Dog owners in Chiasso already must pick up solid waste. The new ordinance extends that responsibility to liquid waste and is believed to be unique in Switzerland so far. Similar requirements already exist in some Italian cities such as Parma and Livorno, and in Spanish cities including Barcelona, where fines can be higher.
Arrigoni has said the measure is partly educational, aimed at making owners more responsible. The town regularly cleans streets with pressure washers but cannot cover every area at all times. About 450 dogs are registered in the town of roughly 8,000 residents.
The change takes effect after a short public awareness period. Enforcement will involve police and municipal officers.
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